Non-Opioid Pain Medicines
Celecoxib
(Celebrex®) capsules
Celecoxib (Celebrex®) is a prescribed medicine that helps with pain and inflammation.
How does this medicine work?
Celecoxib reduces pain and swelling by blocking an enzyme involved in inflammation, called COX-2. Celecoxib works very similarly to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), except it is less likely to cause stomach pain and it is less likely to cause bruising or bleeding.
How do I take this medicine?
Take celecoxib with a glass of water or other liquid. You can take it with or without food.
If you forget to take this medicine: Take the medication as soon as you realize that you have missed the dose. If it is close to the time that your next dose is due, skip the missed dose.
What are the side effects?
Celebrex may cause upset stomach or heartburn. It may raise your blood pressure, but this is not usually a big problem. Celecoxib can cause a drop in your kidney function – especially if you already have kidney disease.
Rarely, Celecoxib may cause more serious side effects. Celexocib and other COX-2 inhibitors cause a very small increase in the chance of heart attack or stroke. It can also cause an allergic reaction. Call your doctor or seek medical attention if you experience any of the following side effects, or any other side effects that bother you or do not go away.
Chest pain or trouble breathing
Signs of stroke, including sudden weakness in a part of your body or difficulty speaking
Skin rash
How can I be safe when taking this medicine?
Always follow the prescription instructions and call your care team if you have any questions.
Do not take blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen while using this medicine. These medicines may put you at increased risk of bleeding and other side effects.
Drinking plenty of fluids (at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day) while taking this medication.
Tell your doctor about the other medicines you are taking. Other medicines such as aspirin may interact with Celebrex. Always talk to your doctor about what other medicines you are taking.
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